People, Student Profile

Insha Zameer Hooda didn’t let challenges stop her from going to university abroad

International undergraduate student credits her mother for her sense of determination and perseverance

September 18, 2023

Why did you choose to study management, and why is it relevant in today’s society?

Growing up in a business-oriented family always piqued my curiosity about the vast world of business and the myriad of opportunities in the world. I started commerce and business studies in the ninth grade and never looked back.

Business management provides the skills and knowledge necessary to help companies grow in an increasingly interconnected global marketplace. With more and more people starting their own businesses, the demand for individuals with management skills is also growing. These are essential for creating, running and scaling businesses.

You’re the recipient of an International Community Achievement Award. What does it mean to you?        

This award recognizes my contributions and achievements within the international community at UBC Okanagan. It signifies that I’ve made a positive impact on the lives of others and have helped foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity for my fellow international students. It’s an honour and a privilege to be recognized for this award, and is a testament to the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my involvement with the international community.

How do you balance school and home life?

I love this question because everyone asks me this all the time. As an international student, I always have five classes. Add to this, two jobs and my work with two student associations. I think balancing school and life is something that comes naturally to everyone in their own way. I have a set to-do list and timetable for everything that has to be done in a week. I also make time for rest (I’ve recently realized how important it is to rest!)

Why is it important to get involved on campus?

Joining clubs and organizations, and taking part in events on campus, allows you to meet new people and build relationships with other students, professors and staff. These connections can be valuable both during university and after graduation. Being involved on campus can help you develop a wide range of skills, like leadership, time management, teamwork and communication. Employers value these skills and can help you stand out in the job market. Being involved on campus can also help you feel more connected to your university and create a greater sense of belonging.

What are some challenges you’ve faced so far in your academic career?

I think my biggest challenge was almost not being able to attend university because of financial constraints. My family was confident we could secure an educational loan based on my acceptance to one of Canada’s highest-ranked universities and my stellar academic record. But patriarchy is still deep-rooted in my homeland, and receiving a university education—which was supposed to be my reality—soon became a slowly fading dream. While I ultimately succeeded in coming to UBCO, this experience taught me that perseverance and hard work are always rewarded; if you set your mind to something, no obstacle can prevent you from reaching your goals.

After my first year of study, I received the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Scholarship for International Students, the UBC Okanagan Management Student Association Scholarship and the Faculty of Management’s International Student Award. These experiences have helped me understand a broader narrative about people and the world. While one cannot control circumstances that life throws at you, the factor differentiating you is how you deal with it; you either become a victim of the problem or surpass others by dealing with it.

What do you think makes UBC Okanagan unique?

UBC Okanagan, which I call my home away from home, has a strong sense of community among students, faculty and staff. This is achieved through a variety of clubs, organizations and events that provide opportunities for students to get involved and connect with others. The university is also committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, with a significant number of both international students and opportunities to study abroad. The campus offers a unique combination of natural beauty, small class sizes, research opportunities, a strong sense of community, international focus and an interdisciplinary approach—all of which make it stand out from other universities.

Do you have a mentor? If so, how have they influenced you?

My mother, Hamida Hooda, is my biggest role model and mentor. My strong determination and perseverance are something I learned from my mother, who has been a constant source of encouragement to break stereotypes related to education in my home country of India. She has instilled in me the importance of perseverance, hard work and education, but has always emphasized overall development rather than focusing only on academics. This has helped me develop a variety of life skills and become a more empathetic and humbler individual.